By Dorica Mtenje

LILONGWE (Maravipost): Nsanje South West legislator Walter Nyamilandu Manda has commended Malawi President, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, for what he described as a strong demonstration of commitment to national duty and fiscal discipline.

Speaking in an interview with Maravipost on Saturday, Manda said Mutharika’s decision to remain in the country to deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA) instead of attending the African Union Heads of State Summit in Ethiopia reflected exemplary leadership.

He said While several African leaders gathered for the summit, Manda noted that Mutharika chose to prioritize addressing Malawians through Parliament at a critical time for the country’s economy.

“His Excellency made a deliberate decision to fulfill his constitutional obligation by delivering the State of the Nation Address. That choice alone shows where his priorities lie with the people of Malawi,” said Manda.

According to the legislator, the move underscores Mutharika’s commitment to austerity measures and prudent use of public resources.

By avoiding international travel and focusing on domestic governance, setting tone of fiscal responsibility and accountability.

He added that the gesture strengthened the credibility of the SONA, as it aligned with the administration’s message of economic recovery and discipline.

“You cannot preach austerity and fiscal discipline while engaging in unnecessary expenditures,this is what it means to walk the talk,” Manda emphasized.

Manda further described Mutharika’s leadership style as selfless and people-oriented, saying it reflects a relentless effort to stabilize and transform the country’s economy during challenging times.

The lawmaker concluded that such decisions reinforce public confidence in leadership and demonstrate a practical commitment to addressing national priorities above international engagements.